Our Team

MEET DR. NICK CAKMES

Dr. Cakmes has a general practice specializing in cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Cakmes has successfully improved all kinds of smiles, from those needing general maintenance to those needing total aesthetic reconstruction. But one comment is consistent among all his patients. They believe “Dr. Cakmes is the gentlest dentist they have ever known.” His careful approach minimizes patient discomfort and makes every patient feel cared for and important. Because he believes in the value of a team atmosphere, Dr. Cakmes has cultivated a staff environment that is highly supportive and loyal. Patients benefit from the cooperative efforts of Dr. Cakmes and his staff.

“I believe that each of my patients deserves the highest quality of care. That’s why I strive to use the best techniques to provide the best results for every patient.”

Dr. Cakmes earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN with a Bachelor of Arts degree in microbiology in 1981. He went on to graduate from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, Memphis, TN with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1985.

His professional memberships include: The American Dental Association, Tennessee Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, The Academy of Dental Health Practice Administrators, and The Second District Dental Society. Dr. Cakmes continues to build his knowledge through yearly continuing education courses and hands-on seminars.

Dr. Cakmes is married with two sons. He enjoys golfing, boating, camping and U.T. Football.

MEET DR. STEVEN CAKMES

Growing up, Steven Cakmes spent a lot of time in his dad’s office. Watching his father interact with patients is what sparked his own interest in the dental field. A Knoxville native himself, he is excited about coming back to his hometown and serving the community he grew up with.

“I have a strong sense of community and becoming a dentist in the area I grew up, and being able to give back to that community makes me happy.”

Steven earned his Graduate in Medicine at the University of Tennessee, where he also completed a General Practice Residency in 2016-2017. He has a special interest in the placing and restoring of implants, as well as crown and bridge work.

When he’s not at Cakmes Dental Studio, Steven enjoys outdoor activities like running, camping, and tending to his garden. You may also catch him at the local farmer’s market or a Tennessee football game.

He is a Remote Area Medical Volunteer and does volunteer work with the Knoxville County Health Department

Steven credits a lot of his success and accomplishments to the support of his family. “My family has always been very supportive and have encouraged me to follow my dreams. It takes a village to get to where I’m at, and they have been that village for me.”

Meet the Staff

Heather Cochran

Office Manager

Heather is a born and raised Kentucky girl and attended the University of Pikeville in Pikeville, KY. New to the Knoxville area, she brings more than 10 years of experience in the dental field to Cakmes Dental Studio. Heather has a daughter, Macie Storm, and loves being a mother. In her free time, she likes to cook, read, golf, visit the lake, and spend time with her family. She enjoys learning new ways to help herself, her team, and her patients achieve goals!

Lauren Taylor, RDA

Front Office Coordinator

Lauren graduated in 2012 as a Registered Dental Assistant and brings 6 years of experience in the field to Cakmes Dental Studio as the Front Office Coordinator. She is certified in CPR/First Aid, Nitrous Oxide Monitoring, Coronal Polishing Certificate, and Sealants. When she’s not working, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family, especially her son, Parker. They love boating, hiking, camping and cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats!

Rachel Cox, RDH

Dental Hygienist

Rachel has 14 years of experience in the dental field, 5 years as a Registered Dental Assistant and 9 years as a Registered Dental Hygienist. Rachel is certified in Nitroux Oxide Administration and is a member of the American Dental Hygiene Association. When she’s not at Cakmes Dental Studio, she enjoys volunteering in the local community and gardening.

Laura Richie, RDH

Dental Hygienist

Originally from Shreveport, Louisiana, Laura has 12 years of experience in the dental field. She graduated from Roane State University as a Dental Hygienist and is certified in N20 monitoring and administering sealant placement. She has a special interest in how oral health affects overall health. In her spare time, Laura enjoys gardening, yoga, running, spending time with her two sons and family, and trying new restaurants. She is also VP of the PTO at her son’s middle school.

Rachel Shalansky, RDA

Dental Assistant

Rachel graduated from dental assisting school in 1994 where she received her training from the U.S. Air Force in Wichita, Kansas. She has lived in Knoxville area for 11 years. She brings her 22 years of clinical experience to Dr. Cakmes’ office where she works alongside him as a chairside dental assistant. She has daughter Morgan and a young son Jackson. She enjoys scrapbooking, cooking and the outdoors.

Kim Webber, CDA, RDA

Dental Assistant

Kim began her career as a Dental Assistant after graduating from the Tennessee Technology Center in 2007 with an Associate Degree. She worked for Kroger for 15 years in the customer service department before beginning her new career in dentistry. She was born and raised in Knoxville and has 2 beautiful children and a wonderful husband. They enjoy their weekends together as a busy family on the go. You can usually find Kim enjoying a family vacation on a Caribbean cruise ship.

Becca Durfee, RDA

Dental Assistant

Becca graduated from Tennessee College of Applied Sciences and Technology in 2009 and has nearly 9 years of experience in the dental field. Becca loves to laugh, and tries to create a happy atmosphere for all of her patients. When she’s not working, you can find her spending time with her family, attending her son’s various sporting games, spending time outdoors, or going to University of Tennessee sporting events. She plays guitar in her free time and loves being crafty.